Investing in What Comes Next
This week, I’ve had the opportunity to spend a few days at a retreat with students from our church. Stepping away from the normal pace of ministry to invest in the next generation is always a reminder that the future of our churches is not theoretical. It is sitting in front of us. These students are not just “the next generation.” They are the church God is shaping right now.
As I’ve listened to their conversations, watched them engage in worship, and seen truth take root in their hearts, I’ve been reminded of how important it is that we do more than simply reach them — we must help them become faithful, growing followers of Christ.
That doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intentional investment from parents, pastors, youth leaders, and churches who are committed to repeatedly pointing them to Christ. It also grows as they begin to understand that they are part of a larger work God is doing beyond their own church.
That’s one of the roles the Baptist Trumpet has quietly filled for generations. Week after week, we help tell the story of what God is doing across our association. When a student reads about a missionary, sees a report from another church, or hears how God is working beyond their own community, it begins to shape their understanding of the mission they are part of.
That is where connection begins — and Lord willing, grows into commitment.
As we continue focusing on Special Emphasis 2026, I’ve been reminded this week that this effort is about strengthening a ministry that helps connect the next generation to the mission we share.
This is about stewardship — not just of a ministry, but of the opportunity to help others see and engage in what God is doing.
A Simple Way to Help
Pastors, thank you for the many ways you invest in your people each week. If you have an opportunity to highlight Special Emphasis or share the Baptist Trumpet video with your church, that would be a meaningful help.
Resources are available at BaptistTrumpet.com/SE2026. Please continue to pray that God will use this ministry to strengthen the connection between our churches and the mission we share.
Special Emphasis Update
I am grateful for each individual and church that has chosen to participate in this year’s emphasis. Every gift represents more than support — it reflects a shared commitment to the mission we are part of together.
With the most recent gifts received, we are now just over one-third of the way to our goal. That is an encouraging milestone, and I am thankful for the momentum we are seeing.
I would also like to give a special word of thanks to the students of Mt. Vernon Youth in the Harvest for choosing the Baptist Trumpet as the recipient of their offering. That kind of intentional generosity from the next generation is both encouraging and meaningful, and it serves as a reminder that this shared work is continuing to move forward.
The following gifts have been received since our last report:
2026 Special Emphasis • Goal — $15,000
Previously Reported $4,886
Don and Robin Clark $100
Friendship, Greenbrier $100
Mt. Vernon Youth in the Harvest $197
Total to Date $5,283
